"As we sit here now, it doesn't mean anything. It's going to be proved in the games we have to come throughout the season.

"We hope the players we have signed do really well for us and we wish the players we have let go all the best in their future careers. But let's wait and see.

"As a manager, I don't think you ever totally get what you want. I think there are always things that maybe escaped us or got away from us. But, in the main, we were well backed and well supported.

"It's a real team effort here so congratulations to everybody on the effort they gave to try to get together the best squad we could.

"But, as I say, time will tell on that. We're certainly looking forward to working with the new players and really getting to know them and to try to have a successful period with them."

Bournemouth have a lengthy injury list with Kelly, David Brook, Dan Gosling, Simon Francis, Lewis Cook and Junior Stanislas on the sidelines.

Howe added: "Once we get everyone fit, I think the squad will be very strong. That is obviously an aim that we're desperately trying to achieve.

"Once we do, it'll be the best squad that I've ever had the privilege to manage here but, as always, the proof is in the results."